Part 1: Designing a Functional Beach House Kitchen (Coastal Kitchen Series)

This post kicks off my three-part series on choosing the right cabinetry for a beach house kitchen - because selecting cabinetry is about so much more than just picking a pretty door style! When done right, cabinetry enhances function, flow, and storage, making your kitchen work effortlessly for your lifestyle.

In Part 1, we’re diving into the most important starting point: functionality. A beach house kitchen has unique needs—whether it’s a second home you use seasonally, a gathering space for family and friends, or an investment property that needs to be as durable as it is beautiful. From layout to storage to appliance placement, here’s how I approach designing a functional, well-planned coastal kitchen.

1. Function First: How Do You Use Your Kitchen in a Beach House or Second Home?

Before choosing cabinetry finishes or styles, the first step is to think about how your kitchen needs to function - and in a beach house or second home, that looks a little different than in a primary residence.

For many of my clients on Long Beach Island, their kitchen isn’t just for daily cooking - it’s the heart of their vacation home, where they entertain guests, host family gatherings, and prep meals in a space that needs to work just as well for a quiet weekend as it does for a full house in the summer.

Key Functionality Considerations for a Beach House Kitchen:

  • Entertaining & Gathering – A vacation home often has a revolving door of guests, whether it’s extended family, friends, or renters. Having a kitchen that can accommodate large groups is key.

  • Efficiency & Ease – Since second homes aren’t used daily, storage solutions should make it easy to unpack and settle in without feeling cluttered.

  • Low-Maintenance & Durable Materials – A beach house kitchen sees sand, salt, and extra wear and tear. The right cabinetry and layout can make clean-up easier.

Best Cabinetry & Layout Features for a Beach House Kitchen

To make sure your kitchen functions as effortlessly as possible, I recommend:

  • A Large Island with Ample Seating – Prioritize an island that can seat as many people as possible. A 8- to 10-foot island with counter stools becomes the central hub for casual meals, happy hour, and entertaining.

  • A Separate Scullery or Butler’s Pantry – This is a game-changer for a beach house. A hidden prep area for small appliances, extra fridge drawers, and a second sink keeps the main kitchen looking tidy while providing space for easy meal prep.

  • Floor-to-Ceiling Cabinetry on One Wall – Instead of scattered storage, I often design one full-height wall of cabinetry that serves as a combination pantry, small appliance garage, and overflow storage for extra dishes, paper goods, and beach-friendly entertaining pieces.

  • Two Dishwashers – If you host large groups or use your home seasonally, a second dishwasher is a must. It saves time when entertaining and keeps your kitchen from getting overloaded with dirty dishes.

  • Deep Drawers for Pots, Pans & Serving Pieces – Instead of lower cabinets with doors, opt for deep drawers. They’re easier to access and keep everything organized - no more digging in the back of a cabinet for a missing pot lid.

  • A Durable, Easy-to-Clean Finish – If you’re not at your beach house full-time, choose cabinetry with a durable, wipeable finish. A matte or satin paint holds up better than a high-gloss finish, and a light-stained oak can hide sand and wear beautifully.

  • Panel-Ready Appliances for a Seamless Look – If your cabinetry is doing a lot of the heavy lifting for storage and function, integrating your appliances with panel-ready fronts keeps everything feeling streamlined and custom.

Why it Works

These design choices ensure that whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, prepping for a quiet weekend, or transitioning in and out of your second home, your kitchen is functional, easy to maintain, and built for beachside living.

Designing a functional beach house kitchen is just the first step! In the next post of this three-part cabinetry series, I’ll be breaking down the best cabinet door styles and finishes to achieve a timeless coastal look—so be sure to follow along.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation or new build and want expert guidance in creating a beautifully designed, highly functional space, I’d love to help. Send in an inquiry form to get started!

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Part 2: Choosing the Right Door Style & Finish (Coastal Kitchen Series)

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How to Plan Your Coastal Home Renovation for Summer 2025